Are you using Linkedin to expand your professional network? Then you must be wondering what email you should use for your profile. Well, the answer is not as simple as it seems. In fact, choosing the right email can make a big difference in how you present yourself on the platform.
In this article, we will explore the different types of emails that you can use for Linkedin and provide you with tips to choose the one that suits your needs the best. So, whether you are a job seeker, a business owner, or a freelancer, keep reading to find out what email you should use for Linkedin.
What Email Should I Use for LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is one of the most popular social media platforms that professionals use to connect with each other. It is a great way to showcase your skills and experience, network with like-minded individuals, and even find job opportunities. To get started on LinkedIn, the first thing you need to do is create an account. One of the key pieces of information you need to provide is your email address. But what email should you use for LinkedIn? Here are some things to consider.
Use a Professional Email Address
When creating a LinkedIn account, it is important to use a professional email address. This means using an email address that is associated with your name or your business. Avoid using email addresses that are too personal, such as those that contain nicknames or inappropriate words. Using a professional email address will help you create a good first impression on potential employers or clients who view your profile.
Using a professional email address also helps you to brand yourself. For example, if you are a freelance writer, you can use an email address that includes your name and the word “writer” (e.g. john.smith.writer@gmail.com). This will help people identify you as a writer and make it easier for them to contact you for writing opportunities.
Consider Using Your Work Email Address
If you are currently employed, you may want to consider using your work email address for LinkedIn. This is especially useful if you want to connect with colleagues or clients from your current workplace. However, you need to be careful when using your work email address. Make sure you have permission from your employer to use it for LinkedIn, and avoid using it for personal messages or updates.
Using your work email address can also help you to build your professional network. It shows that you are actively engaged in your industry and that you are interested in connecting with other professionals in your field.
Avoid Using Generic Email Addresses
Avoid using email addresses that are too generic, such as those that end in @gmail.com, @yahoo.com, or @hotmail.com. While these email providers are perfectly fine for personal use, they may not give the best impression on LinkedIn. Using a generic email address suggests that you are not serious about your professional image, and may make it harder for potential contacts to take you seriously.
Benefits of Using a Professional Email Address
Using a professional email address on LinkedIn has several benefits:
- It shows that you are serious about your professional image and reputation
- It makes it easier for potential employers or clients to contact you
- It helps you to brand yourself and stand out from other professionals in your field
- It helps you to build a professional network and stay connected with colleagues and clients
What to Do If You Want to Change Your Email Address
If you have already created a LinkedIn account using an email address that you no longer want to use, you can change it easily. Simply go to your LinkedIn profile and click on the “Edit Profile” button. Then, click on the “Contact Info” section and select “Add Email Address.” You can then add your new email address and make it your primary email address on LinkedIn.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing an email address for LinkedIn, it is important to use a professional email address that reflects your name or your business. Avoid using email addresses that are too personal or too generic, and consider using your work email address if appropriate. Using a professional email address will help you to create a good first impression on potential contacts, build your professional network, and stand out from other professionals in your field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to using email for LinkedIn:
1. Can I use any email address to create a LinkedIn account?
Yes, you can use any email address to create a LinkedIn account. However, it’s recommended to use an email that you check frequently, and that is professional, such as your work email or a personal email that includes your name.
Using a professional email will help you make a good impression on potential employers or connections on LinkedIn. Additionally, using an email address that you check often will ensure that you receive important notifications and messages from LinkedIn.
2. Can I change the email address associated with my LinkedIn account?
Yes, you can change the email address associated with your LinkedIn account at any time. To do so, go to your LinkedIn settings and click on “Email addresses”. From there, you can add a new email address and make it your primary email address by clicking on the “Make primary” button.
Keep in mind that changing your email address will affect how you log in to your LinkedIn account, as well as how you receive notifications and messages. Make sure to update your email address in all relevant places to avoid missing important information.
3. Should I use my work email or personal email for LinkedIn?
It’s up to you to decide whether to use your work email or personal email for LinkedIn. However, it’s generally recommended to use a professional email address, such as your work email or a personal email that includes your name.
Using a professional email will help you make a good impression on potential employers or connections on LinkedIn. Additionally, using an email address that you check often will ensure that you receive important notifications and messages from LinkedIn.
4. Can I have multiple email addresses associated with my LinkedIn account?
Yes, you can have multiple email addresses associated with your LinkedIn account. To add a new email address, go to your LinkedIn settings and click on “Email addresses”. From there, you can add a new email address and make it your primary email address by clicking on the “Make primary” button.
Having multiple email addresses associated with your LinkedIn account can be useful if you want to receive notifications and messages at different email addresses, or if you want to use different email addresses for different purposes on LinkedIn.
5. Can I use a generic email address for LinkedIn, such as info@mycompany.com?
It’s generally not recommended to use a generic email address, such as info@mycompany.com, for LinkedIn. Instead, it’s best to use a professional email address that includes your name, such as john.doe@mycompany.com or johndoe@gmail.com.
Using a professional email will help you make a good impression on potential employers or connections on LinkedIn. Additionally, using an email address that you check often will ensure that you receive important notifications and messages from LinkedIn.
In conclusion, choosing the right email for LinkedIn is crucial to ensure that you receive all the important notifications and stay connected with your professional network. It is recommended to use a professional email address that includes your name or a variation of it. This not only makes it easier for your connections to identify you but also adds credibility to your profile.
Additionally, make sure that the email you choose is active and regularly checked. Having an email that is rarely checked defeats the purpose of having a professional profile on LinkedIn. It is also advisable to avoid using personal or informal email addresses as it may give a wrong impression to your connections.
Lastly, keep in mind that your email address is a reflection of your professional identity. So choose wisely and make sure that it aligns with your brand and the image you want to portray on LinkedIn. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your email address is an asset to your profile and helps you build a strong professional network.